• Learn more about S:US’ Urban Farms.

If you tend to run the other way after hearing a buzz, a unique beekeeping program in Brooklyn might change your mind.

At Services for the UnderServed (S:US), bees are becoming a tool for growth, connection and job training.

How Services for the UnderServed offers help

Opening a beehive can intimidate even the toughest New Yorker. But behind the smoke and the swarms is a lesson in confidence.

“Insects are a thing that make people nervous. But I think once you get a sense of how honeybees interact with the environment, how docile they are … We’ve had nothing but support,” said Mike Hollis, vice president for community food security at Services for the UnderServed.

Hollis works for S:US’ therapeutic horticulture program, which includes urban gardens and a unique beehive operation in Brooklyn. In the backyard of one supportive housing development, program participants tend to gardens filled with fruits and vegetables, and care for thousands of bees.

“These are New Yorkers with intellectual and developmental disabilities, New Yorkers recovering from substance use or domestic violence, New Yorkers that have behavioral health diagnoses,” Hollis said.

Program offers a sense of purpose

Among the participants is Christina Buie, a beekeeper-in-training and urban farmer. She said her path to the program followed a series of difficult experiences, including an elevator accident that led to a coma and a mental health breakdown.

“Back and forth to the hospital, and I just couldn’t hold my job,” Buie said.

Now, Buie is employed to care for the garden, where she helps grow about 500 pounds of eggplants, tomatoes and corn each season. The produce is distributed for free to residents upstairs.

“I love planting. I love to eat what I grow, I know what I’m eating,” Buie said.

“It’s a vocational opportunity to build skills”

Stephen McKenzie, another urban farmer and resident at the development, said the garden has also provided him with a sense of peace after a difficult period in his life.

“I was, you know, homeless at one time … I like coming out here for peace and quiet,” McKenzie said.

The honey harvest runs every two weeks through September. Some of the honey is sold at farmers’ markets, but most of it goes directly to residents and program participants. Proceeds from the sales get used to expand programming for future years.

“It’s both an income, and it’s a vocational opportunity to build skills, to build job experience,” Hollis said.

For the people behind the hives, honey is only one of the sweet things coming. The other is a sense of purpose.

Read the original article here.

On Sunday, June 28, Services for the UnderServed (S:US) proudly joined the 2026 NYC Pride March for the fourth year in a row. A group of 25 staff, allies, and people served marched together in celebration and solidarity.

This year’s theme is “For All of Us,” referencing a quote widely attributed to LGBTQIA+ activist and Stonewall veteran Marsha P. Johnson: “There is no pride for some of us without liberation for all of us.” As our trans and non-binary siblings face a growing wave of hateful attacks at every level of government, this year’s theme recalls the queer trail-blazers who came before us – and centers the ongoing fight on the most marginalized among us.

Marching together, S:US lifted up the voices of our LGBTQIA+ staff, the people we serve, and our community as well as renewed our pledge to create safe, inclusive spaces for all. We’re proud to show up not just in June, but year-round in support of equality, visibility, and justice.

View more photos here.

We proudly celebrate the diversity of the people that we support with disabilities – those with physical, intellectual/developmental disabilities, people with mental illness, and those with undiagnosed disabilities. We are dedicated to helping people lead their best lives by creating opportunities for meaningful relationships, full integration into the community, and personal growth.

Resources:

• The Disability Unite Festival is on July 12 at Central Park and online
• The New York Public Library has resources and events for Disability Pride Month
• Why and how to celebrate Disability Pride Month by The Arc

Participants with intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD) from Services for the UnderServed (S:US)’ Day Habilitation programs visited the Metropolitan Museum of Art for a private guided tour with an art workshop in a gallery. Led by two Arts Educators, Amy Delahunty Gilbert and Francisco Eraso, the participants visited carpets from the dynastic shrine of the Safavid period (1501-1722) from Iran made from silk and wool, showing wild animals in a field of vines, blossoms with flowers and natural landscapes. The carpets were used for floor coverings in a refectory. The guides also showed us a mosaic with an inscription, in an earlier version of Arabic stating “May blessings and peace be upon him.” The mosaic was in shades of aquamarine, teal and blue and made from glazed cut tiles in Iran in 1354. As we moved from gallery to gallery, our group viewed other artwork including some stone sculptures and small art objects protected inside glass enclosures.

Photo: People supported with intellectual/developmental disabilities creating their own art during the Met workshop.

The tour included viewing of artwork in several galleries. Regarding the visit, many people supported shared their positive experience. Ekuan liked seeing a statue “…that looked like a tree or a column. It was cool.”  Melissa shared, “I liked making the art after seeing the art.  I want to do it again.”  Tyler loved seeing a lion represented in one of the carpets from Iran.  Tasha shared, “I loved it!  I liked everything about our visit – the rugs, the mosaic made from tiles.  I want to come back!”  Valerie shared that “…I liked the tiles, the mosaic and the prayer on the tile door which shared “Blessings and Peace. It felt good to see it; it was my first time at this museum.  It was beautiful!”

We are grateful to the Met Arts Educators Amy Delahunty Gilbert and Francisco Eraso, all of the staff at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, along with the S:US staff and Direct Support Professionals for helping to make this guided tour such a rich experience for the people that S:US supports.

• Learn more about S:US’ Developmental Disabilities Services.

“Once my loved ones accepted the diagnosis, healing began for the entire family, but it took too long. It took years. Can’t we, as a nation, begin to speed up that process? We need a national campaign to destigmatize mental illness, especially one targeted toward African Americans…It’s not shameful to have a mental illness. Get treatment. Recovery is possible.” – Bebe Moore Campbell, 2005

Campbell understood that mental health isn’t just about individual healing — it’s about community transformation. This month brings awareness to the unique struggles that our BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) community faces around mental illness in this country. Members of the BIPOC communities often face disproportionate inequities in care, support, or mental health services. We also know that this community’s use of mental health services is very low compared with the level of need. 

Mental Health Resources:

• Download the 2026 BIPOC Mental Health Toolkit, which includes tons of free, practical resources to support you in taking action for BIPOC mental health. 
• Join The Garrison Institute’s BIPOC Meditation Sangha, a free weekly gathering for people of color on Thursdays, 12-1pm EDT.
• Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988 for free 24/7 confidential support.
• Call 1-888-NYC-WELL, text “WELL” to 65173, or chat online with a professional. This 24/7 service is free of charge and completely confidential.
• Call the NAMI-NYC Helpline 212-375-3101 or email helpline@naminyc.org. Services are offered in English and Spanish, Monday-Friday 10am to 6pm.
• Read these articles from Mental Health America: BIPOC mental health myth-busting, Breaking down mental health stigma in BIPOC communities, and How to cope when your community is under attack
• Read How People of Color Can Experience Grief Differently Than White People (Huffington Post) for a BIPOC perspective plus resources for coping.

Services for the UnderServed (S:US), together with Bronx Pro Group and Curtis + Ginsberg Architects, is proud to announce that Melrose North has been awarded the 2026 Berger Prize by the Design Trust for Public Space. 

Named in honor of the late Ted Berger, the Design Trust’s longest-serving Board Member and a trailblazer for the arts, cultural policy, and New York City, the Berger Prize recognizes projects that embody bold vision, deep community partnership, and lasting public impact. Melrose North stands firmly in that tradition. 

Perry Perlmutter, R. Darby Curtis, Matthew Clarke

A bold transformation in the Bronx

Melrose North began with a courageous idea: transforming an underutilized NYCHA site—once home to a trash compactor—into housing and opportunity for the Bronx. 

Awarded through a NYCHA Request for Proposals in 2018, the project advanced through more than two years of close collaboration among S:US, Bronx Pro Group, and multiple City agencies. What emerged is a model of community-centered development that reimagines public land as a platform for equity, stability, and possibility. 

Today, Melrose North is a 171-unit supportive and affordable housing development that serves New Yorkers who have faced profound challenges, including: 

• Formerly homeless individuals living with mental health or substance use disorders 

• Individuals and families who have survived domestic violence 

• Residents seeking the stability that affordable housing provides 

A home offers safety, dignity, and the foundation to rebuild. That stability changes everything. 

R. Darby Curtis, Lauren LaMack, Perry Perlmutter, David Lebenstein, Justin Stein

The power of partnership

Melrose North is the result of a deep, mission-driven partnership in which each organization brought essential strengths: 

• Services for the UnderServed (S:US) provides on-site supportive services that help residents achieve stability, independence, and long-term success. 

• Bronx Pro Group contributed development expertise and a long-standing commitment to the Bronx community. 

• Curtis + Ginsberg Architects designed a building that advances wellness, safety, and pride for residents. 

• DreamYard Project infused creativity and connection, helping residents feel rooted in a vibrant, culturally rich neighborhood. 

Together, these partners created not only a building, but a community anchor—a place where housing, services, and public space work in concert. 

A community anchor designed for dignity and connection

Melrose North was designed to support both daily life and long-term wellbeing. The building includes: 

• Community and computer rooms that foster connection, learning, and access to opportunity 

• A children’s play area that supports families and intergenerational community life 

• A community garden that offers green space, healing, and shared stewardship 

• A mural created with NYCHA residents, celebrating neighborhood identity and creativity 

• 24-hour security to promote safety and peace of mind 

• A new accessible ramp to the Melrose Metro-North station, improving mobility and access to the broader city 

With Passive House design, Melrose North brings cutting-edge sustainability and comfort to residents, reducing energy use while enhancing quality of life. 

Advancing housing in New York City

As one of New York City’s largest nonprofit housing developers and service providers, Services for the UnderServed is committed to eradicating homelessness and expanding access to high-quality, affordable, and supportive housing. 

S:US works in partnership with government, funders, developers, and community organizations to: 

• Develop and operate supportive and affordable housing across the boroughs 

• Provide person-centered services that help residents maintain housing, improve health, and pursue their goals 

• Bring more than 2,000 new affordable units online each year, helping to close the gap in the city’s housing crisis 

In a city where the housing crisis continues to widen the distance between need and opportunity, Melrose North demonstrates that collaborative, community-centered development can close that gap. It shows what becomes possible when we invest not only in buildings, but in people. 

Photos: S:US

• To view all photos from the event, please click here.

On June 10, 2026, Emmy-winning and four-time James Beard Award-winning chef Andrew Zimmern curated the Dinner for a Better New York, a culinary celebration to benefit Services for the UnderServed (S:US), a nonprofit organization founded in 1978, that is transforming the lives of New Yorkers with disabilities, people in poverty, and people facing homelessness. Zimmern, who also serves as a member of the S:US board, was joined by 11 of the city’s top chefs for a night celebrating S:US’ life-changing work to build a better New York where opportunities are available to all. Click here to read the press release.

The evening raised over $1.6 million to benefit New Yorkers in need of housing, shelter, treatment and rehabilitative services, employment and skills-building, therapeutic horticulture, and crisis services.

“Every gift made tonight says something powerful,” said Andrew Zimmern, Host and Curator of the Dinner for a Better New York. “It says that opportunity should not be reserved just for the lucky. It says that housing matters, that mental health matters, that dignity matters, and that every human life has value without exception. We will step forward.” 

“The money we raise tonight will help people in need,” said Perry Perlmutter, President & CEO. “People who are chronically homeless with mental illness and substance use challenges and not only get them into permanent, supportive and affordable housing, but set them up to live healthy, independent, and socially connected lives.”  

Chefs who prepared the evening’s world-class menu included:

• Daniel Boulud of Épicerie Boulud
• Marcus Samuelsson and Fariyal Abdullahi of Hav & Mar
• Esther Choi of Mokbar
• Marc Forgione of Forgione 
• Alex Guarnaschelli of Clara
• Jonathan Waxman of Barbuto
• Michael White of Santi
• Angie Mar of LeB
• Franklin Becker of Point Seven
• Leah Cohen of Pig & Khao
• Restaurateur Sean Feeny of Fini Pizza

Guests enjoyed tasting stations, each presented by a chef in-person, and a multi-course menu curated by Zimmern. The Dinner for a Better New York also honored Richman Housing Resources LLC and Board member, Victor Rosenzweig. 

“Here’s what I’ve come to believe is that the measure of a city is not high how the buildings are or how high the stock price is, it’s what we all do for the people that have the least. And that’s not a slogan, I think that’s a practice and a calling. S:US has spent decades answering that call. S:US’ housing portfolio is a living network of real homes for New Yorkers.” Moshe McKie-Krisberg, President of Richman Housing Resources

“I am honored to be associated with S:US and the people that are leading it and have lead it and have done such great work in the past.” Victor Rosenzweig, S:US Board member

• Donate to support S:US’ life-changing work.

The 2026 Andrew Zimmern Award, which recognizes individuals who exemplify the values and characteristics that Zimmern lives by, was awarded to Lavon Turner. Lavon has endured numerous emotional and physical hardships throughout his life including losing his youngest brother to gun violence, and dealing with his mother’s struggles with addiction amid the crack epidemic. Lavon began experimenting with drugs at the age of 12, a pattern that continued into adulthood and led to repeated incarcerations and unsuccessful treatment attempts. Eventually, he reached a turning point and knew it was time for lasting change. That’s when he was introduced to S:US and a program designed to support individuals through trauma recovery, sobriety, vocational training, and stable housing. Today, Lavon is a college graduate and a proud full-time employee at S:US.

“I don’t like to say I’m proud of myself, but I’ll tell you this, I’m psyched for myself. I’m psyched for the man I’ve become, I’m psyched for the future I’m building for me and for my children because that is what this is really about. So tonight I accept this award not just for myself but for my mother and for my children and for everyone at S:US who believed in me and for every young man still waiting for someone to give him an opportunity.” Lavon Turner, 2026 Andrew Zimmern Award Winner

The Dinner for a Better New York took place at Tribeca Rooftop, in lower Manhattan.

Enjoy the stories, personal notes, ads from our events sponsors, and so much more in our Dinner for a Better New York program.

• Learn more about S:US’ services.

Juneteenth was recognized as a federal holiday in 2021. Learning about Juneteenth is part of a broader education of the practice, impact, and legacy of slavery that speaks to Black history in this country—and therefore American history. It is a time to come together to acknowledge our history, celebrate Black freedom and achievement, embrace diversity, and continue to work to advance social justice and racial equity.  

For more information about Juneteenth and the events that are happening in NYC, visit the resources below. 

• Brooklyn’s Juneteenth NY Celebration
• JUNETEENTH.com
• Juneteenth Freedom Fest NYC
• Juneteenth Food Festival
• NYC Parks
• NYC Public Schools

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
June 11, 2026

MEDIA CONTACT:

Chris Duyos
sus@berlinrosen.com
305-905-1536

2026 Dinner for a Better New York® Raised More Than $1.65 Million for Critical Investments in Homelessness Prevention, Affordable and Supportive Housing, and Behavioral Health Services

Photos and videos can be found HERE

NEW YORK – On June 10, Services for the UnderServed (S:US) held its signature annual fundraising event, the 2026 Dinner for a Better New York®, at the Tribeca Rooftop. Hosted by renowned chef and television personality Andrew Zimmern, the Dinner for a Better New York® celebrates S:US’ 48 years of unwavering commitment to transforming the lives of New York’s most vulnerable residents.

The evening featured an all-star lineup of acclaimed chefs joining Zimmern, including Daniel Boulud, Alex Guarnaschelli, Marcus Samuelsson, Fariyal Abdullahi, Michael White, Esther Choi, Sean Feeney, Angie Mar, Franklin Becker, Marc Forgione, Leah Cohen, and Jonathan Waxman. Together, they created an unforgettable dining experience that celebrated both extraordinary culinary talent and the collective commitment to supporting vulnerable New Yorkers.

“This evening showcased the power of community in action,” said Perry Perlmutter, CEO of Services for the UnderServed. “By bringing together some of New York’s most celebrated chefs, dedicated supporters, and community leaders, Dinner for a Better New York raised critical funds that will help vulnerable New Yorkers access housing, treatment, employment opportunities, and the support they need to thrive. We are incredibly thankful to everyone who helped make this event such a success.”

Funds raised support S:US’ comprehensive programs serving tens of thousands of New York City and Long Island’s most vulnerable individuals and families, creating pathways to stable and productive lives through housing, employment, skills building, treatment, and rehabilitation services.

About the Featured Chefs:

• Andrew Zimmern (Host): James Beard Award-winning chef, author, and television personality known for “Bizarre Foods” and his advocacy for food justice
• Daniel Boulud: French-born chef and restaurateur behind Cafe Boulud and the Michelin-starred restaurant Daniel
• Alex Guarnaschelli: Iron Chef and executive chef at Butter Restaurant, known for her appearances on Food Network
• Marcus Samuelsson: James Beard Award-winning chef and restaurateur behind Red Rooster Harlem, Hav & Mar, and other acclaimed establishments
• Fariyal Abdullahi: Executive Chef of Hav & Mar, known for cuisine inspired by her Ethiopian heritage and global influences
• Michael White: James Beard Award-winning chef and restaurateur known for his acclaimed Italian cuisine and restaurants around the world
• Esther Choi: Chef and restaurateur known for modern Korean cuisine at Mokbar
• Sean Feeney: Co-founder of Grovehouse Hospitality Group, and managing partner at Red Hook Tavern and Hometown Bar-B-Que
• Angie Mar: Chef and restaurateur known for her New York City restaurant Le B.
• Franklin Becker: Chef and restaurateur behind Point Seven, known for his ingredient-driven cuisine and hospitality ventures across New York City
• Marc Forgione: Iron Chef and restaurateur known for his modern American cuisine
• Leah Cohen: Chef and owner of Pig & Khao, known for her Southeast Asian-inspired cuisine influenced by her Filipino heritage
• Jonathan Waxman: Pioneer of California cuisine and James Beard Award winner

The 2026 Dinner for a Better New York® raised more than $1.65 million to support Services for the UnderServed’s programs—the highest amount ever raised at this event—demonstrating the community’s strong commitment to serving New York’s most vulnerable populations.

This year’s honorees included Richman Housing Resources LLC; Victor Rosenzweig, Member of the S:US Board of Directors; and Lavon Turner, an S:US program participant. The event was co-chaired by Josh Bider, Erin Felker Bond, Gail McCallion, Linda Nguyen, Marie Isabelle Palacios Hardy, and Deborah Wolfe.

Services for the UnderServed thanks its 2026 sponsors Suzanne & Victor Rosenzweig, LAMB Insurance Services, Richman Housing Resources LLC, Sandra Stark & Jim Mersfelder, Janine Tramontana & Gareth Old, The Beacon Group, D&J Transportation, Lori & Sloan Goan, Teresa & Larry Hamdan, John McKesson, Andy Frain Services, BDO, Bronx Pro Group, BPG Home Builders, Cushman & Wakefield, Hirschen Singer & Epstein LLP, National Advisors Trust, Olshan, and TD Bank for supporting this important event. 

To learn more and support Services for the UnderServed’s work, please visit sus.org.

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About Services for the UnderServed (S:US): 

S:US helps vulnerable New Yorkers build stable, healthy, and fulfilling lives, starting with a place to call home. Through homelessness prevention, affordable and supportive housing, and services that promote health, independence, and community, S:US creates pathways to lasting stability. Even as it serves tens of thousands annually, S:US meets each person with dedicated support shaped around their own path and goals. Their efforts are supported by various local, state, and federal government entities, foundations, corporations, and individual donors.